Parc de la Riera

Parc de la Riera is the largest urban park in Palma de Mallorca, spreading across more than 120,000 square meters of green space right in the heart of the city, next to Carrer de Jesús.

Where is the park and how do you get there?

The park sits in the Jesús neighborhood, a short walk from Palma's historic old town, making it an easy stop for anyone looking to step away from the busy squares and narrow streets of the city center without leaving town. Several city bus lines run through the surrounding streets, connecting the park to the center and other districts, and drivers will find on-street parking in the nearby blocks.

What's behind the name and the site's history?

The park takes its name from the old sa Riera streambed, which for centuries carried rainwater runoff from the surrounding hills down toward the city. After a devastating flood in 1403, authorities decided to reroute the stream away from central Palma, a project carried out between 1613 and 1620. The old channel then sat largely undeveloped for centuries until the early 2000s, when it was transformed into a large public park as part of a broader flood-management and urban-renewal program.

What can you see and do here?

The park is split into distinct zones. Wide grassy lawns invite picnics and shaded downtime under the trees, while dedicated sports areas cover football, basketball and volleyball courts, plus courts for petanque, a bowls game especially popular across the Balearic Islands. Families with young children will find a playground, and dog owners get their own fenced-off area (locally called pipi-can) where pets can roam off-leash. A café on site offers a spot to sit down with a drink, and an open-air amphitheater occasionally hosts local cultural events and concerts during the warmer months.

When is the best time to visit Parc de la Riera?

Mallorca's mild climate keeps the park pleasant for most of the year. Spring and autumn bring comfortable temperatures for long walks or sports, while summer visitors tend to favor early morning or late afternoon, when the shade of the trees and the open lawns offer relief from the midday heat. Weekends draw local families and residents making use of the courts and playground, so weekdays are a quieter option if you prefer fewer crowds.

Who is this park suited for?

Parc de la Riera works well for families with children, for anyone looking for an outdoor spot to play sports, and for visitors wanting a break from the busier streets of central Palma without traveling far. It's also a solid choice for travelers bringing their dog along.

Frequently asked questions

How big is Parc de la Riera? The park covers more than 120,000 square meters, making it the largest urban park in Palma.

Is there anywhere to eat or drink inside the park? Yes, there is a café on site serving drinks and snacks to visitors.

Can I bring my dog to the park? Yes, the park has a dedicated fenced area for dogs (pipi-can) where they can move around freely.

What sports facilities does the park offer? It has football, basketball and volleyball courts, petanque courts, and large open lawns for outdoor recreation.